The Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency, charged Skechers with making unfounded claims that its Shape-ups and other “toning shoes” would help people lose weight and tone their buttocks, legs, and abdominal muscles.

To settle the case, Skechers USA has agreed to pay $40 million to provide refunds to people who bought Skechers toning shoes.

Learn more about the refunds, how to apply, and how to avoid misleading marketing claims at ftc.gov/sketchers.

FTC staff will also answer questions about the settlement online on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 from 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. ET. Follow the @FTC on Twitter and ask questions using the hashtag #FTCbcp. Questions can also be posted to the FTC’s Facebook page.